Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

Oklahoma House Bill HB1694

Introduced
2/6/23  
Refer
2/7/23  
Refer
2/20/23  
Report Pass
3/1/23  
Engrossed
3/20/23  
Refer
3/29/23  

Caption

Dental insurance; medical loss ratio calculation; report; rebates; requiring Insurance Department to regulate rates; effective date.

Impact

The introduction of this bill is expected to significantly impact the operational protocols of dental insurance providers in Oklahoma. By requiring that a defined ratio of premiums is spent on patient care, the bill promotes accountability among insurers. The Oklahoma Insurance Department is tasked with overseeing compliance, which includes the authority to disapprove excessive or unjustified rate changes proposed by carriers. This establishes a regulatory framework designed to safeguard consumer interests and potentially improve overall dental health outcomes within the state.

Summary

House Bill 1694 introduces new regulations regarding dental insurance in Oklahoma, focusing primarily on the calculation and enforcement of the medical loss ratio (MLR) for dental benefit plans. The bill mandates that a minimum percentage of premium funds collected by insurers must be allocated towards actual patient care instead of administrative overhead. This percentage is set at a minimum of 80%, and any deviations below this figure would necessitate rebates provided to enrollees. This measure aims to enhance consumer protection and ensure that funds raised through premiums directly benefit dental care quality and services.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1694 is largely seen as positive among consumer advocates and health care reformers who view it as a necessary step towards greater transparency and fairness in health insurance. Proponents argue that this bill will make dental care more accessible and affordable for Oklahoma families. Conversely, some insurance providers have expressed concerns regarding the implications of strict regulatory oversight and its impact on their business operations, suggesting that it may lead to increased premiums or reduced services in certain areas.

Contention

Notable points of contention arose during discussions around the bill, particularly concerning the practicality of enforcing the MLR requirements and the potential financial strain on insurers. Additionally, exemptions outlined in the bill indicate that certain plans, such as those associated with Medicaid or other state-sponsored programs, are not subject to these regulations. This has led to debates about fairness and consistency in health care coverage, especially for low-income populations relying on public health programs. The balance between regulation and operational viability remains a key area of discussion among stakeholders.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OK HB1694

Dental insurance; medical loss ratio calculation; report; rebates; requiring Insurance Department to regulate rates; effective date.

OK HB2805

Dental benefit plans; creating the Medical Loss Ratios for Dental (DLR) Health Care Services Plans Act; definitions; formula; reporting to Insurance Department; data verification; rebate calculation; rates; effective date.

OK SB1832

Dental benefit plans; establishing formula for medical loss ratio; requiring annual reporting; providing for rebate calculation. Effective date.

OK HB3381

Dental insurance; definitions; dental loss ratio; Insurance Commissioner; rules; reports; publication; legislative reports; civil penalty; insurance cards; effective date.

OK HB445

Health insurance; approval of rates to dental plans, medical loss ratio.

OK SB1302

Dental insurance; medical loss ratio

OK HB3350

Insurance; rate calculation; exception; effective date.

OK SB1101

Dental insurance; mandating reports by carrier; requiring certain data to be included in initial report. Effective date.

OK S4063

Requires dental insurance carriers to report on medical loss ratio data annually.

OK SB203

Dental insurance; set medical loss ratio for insurers

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.